It is one of Mexico's most dangerous states, where drug trafficking and kidnappings are rampant.

Certain roads are so dangerous that the federal police sometimes escort travellers in protective convoys.

Tamaulipas is home to the Gulf and Zetas drug cartels, two criminal groups that were once allies but have fought brutal turf wars in recent years.

While they have both been weakened by the captures or killings of top leaders, their members still sow fear in the population.

Thousands missing

About 5,000 people are officially listed as "disappeared" in Tamaulipas, out of the total 26,000 people reported missing in Mexico last year.

But according to the non-governmental organisation Families and Friends of the Disappeared in Tamaulipas, 11,000 people are unaccounted for in the state.

Local media reported that Pulido had accompanied his girlfriend to a party in Ciudad Victoria, when he was abducted.

The young woman was released almost immediately, but said she had no idea where Pulido had been taken.

Before his rescue, officials with Olympiakos said on Sunday they were in constant contact with the family, as well as with Mexican Ambassador Tarcisio Navarrete Montes de Oca, who told them that Mexican authorities were doing "everything possible."

Pulido played in the Greek Cup final on May 17, when his team lost 2-1 to AEK Athens, before leaving for Ciudad Victoria.

He signed a four-year contract with Olympiakos last season. He has played in six matches this season, scoring four goals.